Juicy tomatoes | Photos by the writer
Q. The recent column on tomatoes has inspired me to try growing them again. I tried many times in DHA, Karachi, and also in Malir but each time the plants were attacked by curly leaf virus. Is there some way of protecting tomatoes against this?
A. This nasty virus is carried by whiteflies. Spraying the plants with warm soapy water, garlic spray, chilli spray or a neem-based organic pesticide at the first sight of whiteflies is the best method of control. It is also important to keep the area around the tomato plants weed-free as some weeds host whiteflies, too.
Q. I have a 300 sq ft space on my house roof in Karachi. It receives plenty of direct sunlight. Which vegetables and flowers can be grown there, keeping in mind the local climate and temperatures?
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A. This may not be the reply you expected but first and foremost, you need to create both shade and wind protection. Otherwise, exposed as your rooftop is, few plants will survive. Shade and wind protection can be created from a combination of shade cloth and sturdy frames and it is essential that everything is firmly fixed in place; otherwise a strong wind can bring the whole lot tumbling down, possibly injuring someone in the process. Safety is paramount.
Once this is achieved, you should be able to grow a wide range of vegetables and flowers in pots/containers carefully selected to accommodate the roots of whatever it is you decide to cultivate. Please keep in mind that pots/containers full of soil and plants are very heavy, even more so when the soil is wet. Before putting them in place, it is advisable to consult with a construction engineer to find out if your rooftop is capable of supporting the weight without causing structural damage. Lots of people are creating wonderful rooftop gardens now and they are veritable private paradises within the city, but it is important to check feasibility and fine details before beginning to turn your dream into reality.
Q. I want to grow cherry blossoms in Karachi. Is this possible and, if so, where can I get the seed? If not, then please suggest a flowery alternative.
A. The Karachi climate is not suitable for cherry trees, but if it is gorgeous spring blossom you desire then invest in a Kachnar (Bauhinia) sapling. The orchid-like blossoms are stunning and they often begin to flower at just two years old; the flowers are edible. This small- to medium-sized tree should be available in local nurseries over the winter months.